Making in School
Cohort Member
In Mosaic Preparatory Academy Making happens every day. A special focus on Making in the library has helped bridge story time into Making time.
Christina Johnson
with support from Faigy Abraham
Why did you choose a career in education?
I didn't choose education it chose me. By that I mean that I needed a job and at the time the DOE was hiring. Once in, I realized that I had a passion for teaching and I have loved it ever since. I can't imagine doing anything else.
What hobbies or other interests have your brought to your classroom?
I learned the basics of sewing in "Home Economics" as a middle schooler and since then I have sewn many things. It was so satisfying to be able to make my own clothes. I would love to give this experience to my students. I am also a scrapbooker, bath salt maker, and recycler.
How do you plan on bringing Making to your students this year?
This year I am going to take what I have done in previous years and build on it making it better. For instance, we built a city block using recycled paper and milk cartons. This year I hope to incorporate some led lighting in my buildings, taking it to another level and incorporating some STEM.
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For the 2017/2018 school year Ms. Johnson is looking to incorporate circuit building into the projects she's already successfully taught.
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At a recent visit to Material for the Arts Ms. Johnson obtained a collection of fabric pieces that she wants students to make into capes either showcasing a positive attribute or perhaps a book.
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Last year students worked in Hour of Code, this year Ms. Johnson is hoping to bring the experience to more of her students during After School.
Making Space
Ms. Johnson works with her students in a spacious library, a portion of which has a bank of 34 computers, another portion of which has an open space with tables and chairs for students to work on. Ms. Johnson utilizes a projector to demonstrate lessons or the SmartBoard.
Making Experiences
Projects ranging from masks to cardboard city streets to lady bugs in a paper flower garden are part of Ms. Johnson creative curriculum.
Making Ideas: